Djokovic Reveals Why He Declined Australian Open Interview Amid 'Kick Him Out' Controversy
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Novak Djokovic ended his fourth-round match at the 2025 Australian Open quite untraditionally, and he explained why during his post-match press conference.
The Serbian player has been cruising through the Australian Open draw this year despite already losing two sets. In the fourth round, Djokovic bested Jiri Lehecka without too many issues.
As is customary, the winning player always provides an on-court interview after the match. Djokovic is usually one of the funniest players when it comes to that, often producing laughable moments with his quick-fire humor.
This time, however, Djokovic chose not to do an on-court interview, only announcing to the crowd that he wouldn't participate in it. He also thanked his fans for coming and watching him play.
Fans were left guessing why the 37-year-old chose to do that, but he explained that immediately after his match. Djokovic wanted to start his press conference by announcing the reason.
A couple of days ago, Channel 9's presenter Tony Jones made very disrespectful remarks about Djokovic and his fans, and that, understandably, made the Serbian player angry.
"Good evening. I would like to just clarify the reason why the interview was not conducted on the court, the post-match interview, like it's a common, usual practice."
"A couple of days ago, the famous sports journalist who works for the official broadcaster, Channel 9 here in Australia, made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me."
Djokovic explained that since neither Channel 9 nor Tony Jones had issued a public apology, he didn't want to provide interviews for Channel 9, which is the official broadcaster of the Australian Open.
"And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel 9. So since they're official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel 9."
The 10-time Australian Open champion also made sure to explain that it had nothing to do with Jim Courier, who was set to interview him, or fans present inside the Rod Laver Arena.
"I have nothing against Jim Courier or neither the Australian public. It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today. It's unfortunate I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously wasn't the time and space or situation for me to explain what I'm doing right now. I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That's all."
Shortly after the match, Djokovic was pictured with the Australian Open tournament director, Craig Tiley. The ATP World No. 7 also explained what the two talked about. He explained to Tiley that he was okay with receiving a fine but wanted to make a statement.
"It's exactly what I told you what I told him. Because I haven't seen him since that happened, and he was communicating with my agent and my team. So I just wanted to make sure, since I have a very good relationship with Craig."
"So, I just wanted to make sure he knows where I stand and the reasons behind it. So I told him, 'If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that's fine' because I think that's something that needs to be done."
After explaining the situation in his press conference, Djokovic also wanted to make sure that all of his fans are aware of why he chose not to do the on-court interview, which is why he also published a video explanation on his social media channels. That can be viewed below.
